“It has been a privilege to serve New Democrats across Nova Scotia over the past 12 years,” Dexter said. “I want to thank the membership for their support and dedication throughout my time as leader. I can think of no other honour that I would hold so dear.

“I also want to thank the Nova Scotians who believed in the NDP and gave us the opportunity to govern for the first time in the province’s history. It has been an experience that I will carry with me always.”

Dexter led the Nova Scotia NDP to victory in the June 2009 election. In his four years as Premier, Dexter’s majority government stabilized the province’s finances, earning the best credit rating in the province’s history; it provided better health care for Nova Scotians by pioneering collaborative emergency centres, a model that is being copied across the country; it set and exceeded North America’s most aggressive targets for renewable energy and received national recognition for land conservation; it implemented direct and indirect measures that significantly reduced poverty; and it helped secure the $25-billion shipbuilding contract, which will create thousands of good jobs and economic growth across the region.

“Darrell was our fearless leader. Throughout his entire political career he worked to make life better for Nova Scotians,” said David Wallbridge, President of the Nova Scotia NDP.

Wallbridge said Maureen MacDonald, NDP MLA for Halifax Needham, will be nominated as Acting Leader at an NDP Provincial Council meeting on Nov. 23 in Halifax.

“Maureen is a tireless and talented advocate. As an experienced MLA and longtime party member, Maureen will be an excellent leader during this period of transition,” said Wallbridge.

A process to elect the new permanent Leader of the Party will be announced at a future date.